Up close with Millennium Point’s new boss, Judith Armstrong
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
I’m Judith Armstrong, the chief executive officer of Millennium Point in Eastside. I am responsible for the vision, direction and leadership of the organisation. I work with our two boards – Millennium Point Trust and Millennium Point Property Limited – to ensure that we meet our business and charitable objectives.
HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN?
I drive in from Sutton Coldfield every day. My route varies each morning depending on traffic, which is generally pretty horrific!
HOW’S THE COMMUTE?
Frantic! I first have to drop off my two children at various places and then battle with the rest of the world to get into the city centre. I like an early start and hate to be late.
IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN?
Birmingham is an amazing place – and it’s getting better each day. With the addition of Grand Central and the reopening of the Mailbox the shopping is fantastic and there are so many amazing restaurants and cafés to choose from. Birmingham is going through a renaissance and we are noticing several global companies branch out here, as well as seeing the independent scene thrive now more than ever.
COFFEE BREAK?
As a team, we generally like to spend our time out in the building on the concourse. It’s a great way of finding out what is happening within the building and chatting to our tenants. If we are off site, we tend to pop over to our neighbour, Hotel La Tour. They serve great coffee in a comfortable environment.
LUNCHTIME?
I’m pretty bad when it comes to taking a break as I usually bring in my own salad. If I do get the chance, my favourite place to have a quick bite is The Balcony in Selfridges – it’s a great people watching spot overlooking Bullring.
KEEPING FIT?
Staying fit is very important to me. I really enjoy going for a run around Sutton Park which helps to clear my head after a busy day at the office.
WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY?
It has to be Centenary Square, especially in the run-up to Christmas when the ice rink and ferris wheel come out to play. It’s a great cultural spot as well as being close to some pretty good bars.
AFTERWORK DRINK?
Anywhere that serves either a nice cocktail or a glass of prosecco. I’m a fan of the Bureau Bar with its vintage theme and big comfy booths.
HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER?
Birmingham is only going to get busier over the next few years so better transport links are vital. At the moment the city feels very disconnected. The walk to Eastside is only 10 minutes from the station but feels a lot longer. Anyone travelling in by car knows only too well that the Aston Expressway is at breaking point! Lastly, I’d also love to see a more co-ordinated approach to what’s going on in the city.